When we launched the Dealer Meetup Series, the goal was simple: create a space for real conversations between people who are actually out there buying cars from the public. No fluff, no pitches—just tactics that work.
In our most recent session, I had the pleasure of talking with David Gavril, who’s currently averaging over 50 private party acquisitions a month—solo. No BDC, no massive team. Just hustle, process, and consistency.
Here’s a breakdown of what David’s doing that every dealership should take note of:
1. Automate the Manual Way: David’s Template-based Workflow
David built his entire FSBO system using nothing more than some smart template use. He cycles through:
He tweaks them based on how sellers respond. This process lets him knock out 60+ outreach messages before most teams have their first coffee.
“I want to get through as many as possible before 7:30. After that, the dealership chaos starts.”
2. Lead With Your Best Offer
David doesn’t play games. He leads with his strongest number to set the tone and control the negotiation.
“If it’s a $28K car, I’m offering $28K. Then if they want $32K, I’m not negotiating from weakness.”
This earns trust fast and creates a better dialogue.
3. Always Send an Offer — Even If You’re $10K Apart
One of the biggest lessons from David’s approach? Don’t disqualify leads just because the seller is way off on price.
“Sellers drop $10K faster than $2K. They know they’re overpriced. I want my number in front of them early.”
It’s common for sellers to come back a week later asking, “Is that offer still good?”
4. Remote Pickups That Actually Work
David has a clean offsite process: his drivers show up with an OBD scanner, FaceTime him for a walkaround, and renegotiate if needed.
“We set expectations early. The whole thing takes 30 minutes, and they get paid. Simple.”
This has allowed him to scale his buying radius well beyond his local market.
5. The Word That Closes Deals: Easy
Over and over, David reinforces that selling to his store is an "easy" process.
“It’s an easy process.”
“Selling to us takes 30 minutes.”
Private sellers are nervous. David defuses that with simplicity and transparency.
Final Word
David’s results speak for themselves. No massive team. Just a clear process executed every single day.
This is what private party acquisition looks like when it’s done right—and why we built VAN to support dealers exactly like David.
If you’re ready to simplify and scale your FSBO process, let’s talk. Happy to walk you through how we help.
